Job Details Working Title: Mineral Potential Geologist Job Class: Research Scientist 2 Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources - Job ID: 97921
- Location: Hibbing
- Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 50%
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 11/06/2026
- Closing Date: 12/03/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
- Division/Unit: Lands and Minerals
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: No
- Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly; $68,841 - $101,476 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE
- FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
Job Summary The Division of Lands and Minerals is seeking to fill one (1) full-time Mineral Potential Geologist position located in Hibbing, Minnesota. This position exists to advance the Department's mineral management and land stewardship mission by independently conducting geological research, evaluating mineral potential, and integrating complex geoscientific datasets into actionable interpretations. The incumbent applies advanced geological training to collect, analyze, synthesize, and communicate scientific findings that support land use decisions, mineral exploration activities, and the long-term management of Minnesota's mineral resources.
Responsibilities include: - Independently design, implement, and complete research and evaluation projects that support mineral potential assessment, land use management, natural resource decision-making, and educational outreach.
- Support and oversee public use of the Drill Core Library. Assist in identifying and offering available supplemental data or materials. Lead outreach efforts to collect and organize sampling data, coordinate the return of sampled materials by updating and maintaining relevant data tables, improve the accuracy of drill hole locations and records, and assist with Drill Core Library functions as needed.
- Lead and participate in projects that curate, organize, and disseminate geological information held by the DNR; inventorying, standardizing, and improving access to hardcopy and digital datasets associated with mineral exploration activities, nonferrous lease terminations, short-term authorizations, historical exploration projects, and Drill Core Library sampling events.
- Complete special assignments, contribute to division and department initiatives, and maintain advanced competencies through ongoing training and professional development.
- Participate in committees, meetings, conferences, and events to support DNR and division goals, share relevant information, and improve scientific and operational effectiveness.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis, which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field.
- Three (3) years of professional experience as a geologist, with experience in mineral exploration, mineral potential evaluation, and technical writing.
- Advanced knowledge and relevant experience in mineralogy, petrology, historical geology, or structural geology, as well as applied knowledge of geochemistry and geophysical methods used in mineral exploration and mineral potential evaluation.
- Demonstrated ability to independently design, conduct, and interpret geological research, and to lead or contribute to interdisciplinary research teams involving DNR staff and external state or federal partners.
- Strong organizational and analytical skills, including the ability to inventory, curate, evaluate, and synthesize geological documents, samples, datasets, and metadata, as well as to collect scientific measurements and develop efficient, accurate workflows.
- Proficiency with geodatabases and digital mapping tools, including the ability to interpret and integrate multiple spatial and nonspatial datasets to support geological analysis and land management decisions.
- Knowledge of mineral systems, ore deposit types, exploration methods (e.g., drilling, geophysics, geochemistry), mineral economics, and digital data management practices, including geographic information systems (e.g., ArcGIS) and related analytical software.
- Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, to independently draft and finalize technical reports and professional presentations to convey technical information, summarize findings, and communicate with internal colleagues, external collaborators, and public or nonspecialized audiences.
- Collaboration and interpersonal skills, sufficient to work constructively with colleagues, supervisors, partners, and the public to support shared goals and maintain a respectful, professional workplace.
Preferred Qualifications - Advanced degree(s) in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field.
- Licensed as a Professional Geoscientist with the State of Minnesota.
- Experience with geoscience data curation, archival practices, or management of legacy datasets.
- Experience and knowledge in the development of databases and GIS-based map production.
- Experience using analytical, machine-learning, or programming tools (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB) for geoscientific data analysis or workflow automation.
- Experience in the collection of geologic field observations used to create a database that permits clients to ask questions of the map and gather data for their own decision-making needs.
- Experience presenting geoscience research at professional conferences, public meetings, or technical workshops.
- Familiarity with Minnesota geology, mineral systems, or historical mineral exploration activities.
- Safety training certification card for the Mining Safety and Health Administration or Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
- Knowledge of mineral leasing, land status systems, or natural resource management frameworks.
Additional Requirements This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's License with a clear driving record. Per DNR Fleet Policy, only individuals 18 years of age or older with a valid driver's license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency.
Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B status).
It is the policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
- Conflict of Interest Review
- Criminal History Check
- Education Verification
- Employment Reference / Records Check
- License / Certification Verification
Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Matt Carter at matt.carter@state.mn.us or 218-231-8445 .
Individuals with disabilities who need reasonable accommodations to assist with the application process should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us .
Per M.S. 43A.111, Department of Natural Resources may appoint qualified disabled Veterans to classified positions on a noncompetitive basis if eligibility requirements are met. To be considered, you must be included on a US Armed Forces permanent disability list with a disability rating of at least 30% or been rated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs as having a compensable service-connected disability of at least 30%. Official written documentation of this disability dated no more than one year preceding the date of application must be submitted. Please email the documentation, your DD-214, and the job posting ID number to Joshua Swanson at josh.t.swanson@state.mn.us . Documentation must be received by the posting closing date to be considered.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Joshua Swanson at josh.t.swanson@state.mn.us .
Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include: - Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support to help you reach your career goals: - Training, classes, and professional development
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: - A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
